Jazzfest ‘thanks’

Dear editor:

The Hot Springs Jazz Society would like to thank the community for making the 29th annual Hot Springs Jazzfest a success!

Jazzfest has traditionally been held under the skybridge on Broadway Street. This year’s event was moved to the Central Theatre, on Saturday, Sept. 3.

Central Theatre owner Chris Rix and his outstanding staff worked tirelessly to provide any and all things that were needed to hold the event.

Chris created a fabulous Jazz Brunch as patrons enjoyed tasty morsels while listening to the dynamic set of the popular duo of John Jordan and Gary Meggs during the 12 o’clock time slot.

The remainder of the daytime lineup included a brilliant performance by The Josh Lawrence Trio, University of Arkansas at Monticello Jazz 1 Ensemble presented some top-notch jazz. Rounding out the afternoon’s festivities was Marquis Hunt, whose smooth jazz and velvet voice mesmerized our audience.

The Big Dam Horns headlined the evening.

Their concert was electrifying. Thank you to The Sentinel-record, Visit Hot Springs and The Springs magazine for promoting our event. To our donors, specifically The Arkansas Arts Council and the Elisabeth D Wagner Foundation, please accept our gratitude!

Thank you to these volunteers who provided immeasurable help throughout the day and evening: Christine Allen, Linda Womack, Cindy Hibler, Lorri and Don Agee, Judi Lewis, Zane Williams and Frank Janaskie! Thank you!

This year’s Jazzfest committee did an outstanding job putting this year’s festival together. The committee included board members Melanie Williams, Ron Mchone,

co-chairs and Lynn Janaskie. Kudos! You guys are the best!

Shirley Chauvin, Arkansas Jazz Hall of Fame, and Hot Springs’ own Jazz Queen, worked to get out news releases and email blasts to membership and to the general public. Emcees Jim Kelly and Bob Kellam were entertaining and informative with their introductions. A big thank you to all board members of the HSJS for your unwavering support.

Finally, thank you to the glue that holds the Jazz Society together, business manager Gretchen Miller. She is an unparalleled asset.

The Jazz Society, in collaboration with the Garland County Library, presents America’s Art Form concerts on the second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.

HSJS, in partnership with Central Theatre, will present Jazznights on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. The Goat Band will kick off the inaugural show on Oct. 4 at 7 p.m.

There are some impressive groups coming to both of these programs in the next few months.

The Jazz Society continues to hold Block Parties in the fall and spring outside the homes of our gracious hosts. Please contact Valerie Tobin if you are interested in hosting a Block Party at vtobin1962@gmail.com.

Thank you Hot Springs!

Valerie Tobin Hot Springs Jazz Society

President 2022